As we celebrate National Student-Athlete Day, we’re highlighting freshman Tessa Wilson and William Ye, who shared their experiences and insights about what it’s like to be a student-athlete in college pickleball. While balancing academics, training, and college pickleball tournaments takes focus, it’s also a chance to grow both as a player and as a student.

What It Means to Be a Student-Athlete

For freshman players like Tessa Wilson, college pickleball is a mix of excitement and responsibility. She explains that being a student-athlete is about representing her school while discovering who she is as both a student and a player.

“Pickleball has always been something I’m passionate about, but now it also comes with more responsibility, balancing independence, academics, and competition,” she said.

William Ye shares a similar perspective. For him, being a student-athlete means staying organized and focused while enjoying the competition and the sport he loves.

Balancing Academics, Training, and Tournaments

Managing school and college pickleball tournaments can be challenging. Tessa stays on top of her work by planning her week carefully and using small pockets of time for studying, like between classes or during travel.

“Balance is something I’m still learning every day. I’m figuring out what works for me and learning how to manage everything more independently,” Tessa explained.

William emphasizes the same idea: “student” comes first in student-athlete. He makes sure schoolwork is completed before stepping on the court. Both agree that time management is key to thriving in college pickleball.

Playing on the DUPR College Pickleball Tour

Being part of the DUPR College Pickleball Tour has been a big part of their college experience. For Tessa, it made college pickleball feel more real and competitive, motivating her to keep improving and representing her school well.

“Being part of the DUPR College Pickleball Tour as a freshman has been an amazing experience because it has introduced me to a higher level of competition right away. It’s pushed me to adapt quickly and grow as a player, while also giving me the chance to meet people from all over the country who share the same passion,” she noted.

William added:

“It has really improved my experience since college pickleball is such a big deal and is taken so seriously. It makes me feel like a true college athlete.”

Advice for Aspiring College Pickleball Players

Both Tessa and William encourage students to start early, stay organized, and enjoy the game. College pickleball is competitive but supportive, giving players the chance to grow, work on their pickleball ratings, and build connections with teammates and other college pickleball players.

“Don’t wait, just get involved as soon as you can. Most importantly, enjoy it. College pickleball is such a fun and supportive community, and it’s an experience you don’t want to miss,” Tessa said.

“If you even have a little bit of interest, go for it. It's the perfect way to have fun but also feel super competitive at the same time,” William added.

Why College Pickleball Matters

Being a student-athlete in college pickleball is about more than just competing. It’s about learning time management, balancing responsibilities, and being part of a growing community. Every college pickleball tournament is a chance to improve, compete at a higher level, and represent your school with pride.

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To learn more about college pickleball, check out this page, and to stay up to date on college pickleball events, follow @college.pickleball.tour on Instagram.

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